Safety in Fire Areas--sawmill Complex
Incident: Sawmill Complex Wildland Fire
Released: 9/8/2007
SAFETY TIPS FOR FIRE AREAS
Fires and burned areas have many hazards. Persons entering these areas need to be aware of these dangers and take precautions.
Fire:
These fires are not out! There are many pockets of heat within the fire perimeter, plus many areas with unburned fuels. It is normal for these two items to interact, resulting in active burning in an otherwise quiet fire area. When driving through this area, it will be normal to see smoke and flames, especially in the interior of the fires. Fire activity is likely to increase if weather conditions turn warmer, drier, or windier. This area is still covered by an evacuation warning due to the potential for further fire activity.
Driving:
The Rock Creek Road is unpaved, narrow, and winding, with little room for vehicles to pass. There are many areas with steep drop-offs or trees next to the road. Fire personnel need to use this road to access the fire. Many fire vehicles are large. Please drive slowly and cautiously, with your headlights on! Plan for the unexpected! To avoid accidents, make sure you can stop in less than half of the distance you can see!
Killer trees:
Fire often damages or destroys the roots of trees. Both dead trees and healthy-looking green trees can have few roots left to anchor them into the ground. These trees can and will fall without warning and sometimes without sound! The danger of falling trees is increased by any wind. Since a falling tree can knock down other trees, please stay well away from the burned areas. Do not enter any burned area! This includes burned banks of Rock Creek.
Road hazards:
There are several areas where rocks fall onto the roadway, without warning. There are also animals on and along the roads, including cattle, bighorn sheep, deer, grouse, and bears. Drive with caution.
Please enjoy this area, but be mindful of the hazards!
